Look who's lording it in Pompeii

DOCTOR Who could find himself facing another gladiatorial task when he takes a trip back in time to the Roman Empire in the latest series. The Time Lord, played by David Tennant, and his new companion Donna, comedian Catherine Tate, arrive in Pompeii in AD 79, on the eve of the eruption of Mount Vesuvius.

DOCTOR Who could find himself facing another gladiatorial task when he takes a trip back in time to the Roman Empire in the latest series.

The Time Lord, played by David Tennant, and his new companion Donna, comedian Catherine Tate, arrive in Pompeii in AD 79, on the eve of the eruption of Mount Vesuvius.

They are faced with the tough decision of rescuing the city's residents or leaving them to fend for them- selves.

The Thick of It star Peter Capaldi guest stars as banker Caecilius.

The episode was filmed inside Rome's Cinecitta studios, transformed to look like Pompeii.

Doctor Who writer Russell Davies said: "Arriving in Pompeii marks the start of another exciting adventure for The Doctor and Donna.

Famous

"Donna is stunned to find herself in the midst of history's most famous volcanic eruption.

"Viewers can expect many more ambitious storylines and a whole host of guest stars in 2008."

The fourth series of Doctor Who is in production and is due to go out on BBC1 next spring.

The new series will also feature an alien emergency in modern-day London and an encounter with murder mystery novelist Agatha Christie. Other guest stars include Howards' Way actress Tracey Childs and Rose and Maloney actor Phil Davis.